Netherlands commits initial tranche from over €2 billion fund for Ukraine
Illustrative photo (Photo: Getty Images)
The Netherlands government allocates 102 million euros as part of the first support package for Ukraine in 2024, aimed at humanitarian aid and urgent needs. This amount constitutes a portion of the country's reserved assistance totaling over 2 billion euros, reports the press service of the Dutch government.
This initial tranche of €102 million is earmarked for the first four months of the upcoming year, aiming to "assist Ukraine in surviving the winter and preparing for spring," as stated in the release.
"The ongoing war continues to inflict damage on Ukrainian society and its economy, thus the needs remain as significant as before," emphasized the statement.
The new support package from the Netherlands is directed towards:
- €15 million for humanitarian aid through the Ukrainian Humanitarian Fund (UHF) of the UNOCHA
- €15 million for landmine clearance in agricultural areas and liberated territories, among other initiatives
- €62 million to support the Ukrainian government in providing essential services, reconstructing critical infrastructure, and facilitating reforms through the Special Program for Ukraine and Moldova Recovery (SPUR), a part of the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank
- €10 million for supplies to the Ukrainian power grid.
Netherlands' aid to Ukraine
Netherlands' assistance to Ukraine extends beyond defense aid to include substantial financial support following Russia's large-scale invasion.
At the end of November, the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hanke Bruins Slot, announced plans to provide an additional €2.5 billion in aid to support Ukraine in 2024.
Previously, it was reported that Amsterdam announced the provision of a new military aid package, including funds for demining, ammunition, and drones.
Additionally, the Netherlands, alongside Denmark, led an aviation coalition to provide modern fighter jets to Ukraine. Overall, our country is set to receive a minimum of 61 aircraft. On November 7, Amsterdam dispatched the first five F-16 fighter jets to Romania for the training of Ukrainian pilots.
Furthermore, in December, the Dutch government decided to fund an €8 million project to support stabilizing Ukraine's demilitarized territories and holding accountable those responsible for war crimes.
